Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al-Baker met with Georgian Prime Minister Nikoloz Gilauri in Tbilisi last week during the launch of the airline's daily flights to the city.

Al-Baker said Georgia's emerging tourism industry, along with infrastructure developments and high-potential business opportunities were key factors leading to the airline's decision to begin flying there.

"Georgia is an underserved market and we are very proud to be the first five-star airline to begin operations to Tbilisi. The business ties between our two countries, as well our close proximity makes us an ideal partner to promote all that Georgia has to offer," he said.

"Qatar Airways' new route was highlighted as a key enabler to help shape this vision into a reality and I look forward to us continuing to work together in the future," said Al-Baker.

As part of its 2012 expansion program, Qatar Airways launched flights to Tbilisi (Georgia) via Baku (Azerbaijan) on Feb. 1.